Graduate Schemes vs Postgraduate Education
There are a plethora of options for those leaving university who don’t want to dive right into a full-time job, and it can be overwhelming to assess the pros and cons of each, which is why we’re here to explain which one is right for you.
Join us as we explore the differences between graduate schemes and post-graduate education. Additionally, we’ll touch on the different types of post-graduate education so that you can embark on your research journey.
What is a postgraduate qualification?
A postgraduate degree is a degree undertaken after completing a level 6 qualification, such as a bachelor’s degree or level 6 NVQ.
Postgraduate degrees allow you to specialise your skills even further past the level 6 qualification that you’ve completed.
Postgraduate Certificate in Education
Moving into an educational role can be achieved by studying for a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE), which allows you to develop skills in teaching to build on the knowledge gained during your undergraduate studies.
Master’s degree
Studying for a master’s in a more specific field, such as molecular chemistry, after achieving an undergraduate degree in chemistry will give you a better chance of landing a job in a competitive and very specialised field.
Graduate Diploma in Law
Some professions, such as law or accounting, prefer that you attain an industry-specific qualification, such as a graduate diploma in law (GDL), in order to progress through the ranks. While a degree might get your foot in the door, the ceiling can be lower without a postgraduate diploma.
Research degree
A research degree involves intense in-depth study of a specific subject and produces original and publishable results at the end of it. It is usually the highest form of degree offered by universities, and as such, it is held in high esteem by employers.
Graduate schemes vs postgraduate education
Now that you’re aware of the postgraduate options available to you, let’s explore some of the similarities and differences between graduate schemes and postgraduate education so that you can make an informed decision about your next step.
Similarities
Specialising
Both graduate schemes and postgraduate education offer the opportunity to hone in on skills that are more specialised than subjects might be at the undergraduate level.
Career advancement
Further training, whether through a graduate scheme or postgraduate education, will help your short and long-term career progress.
Networking opportunities
Graduate schemes and postgraduate education will help you meet new people within the industry you’ve decided to pursue, which may help advance your career prospects.
Differences
Job opportunity
A graduate scheme usually has a direct line to full-time employment within the company you apply to. Postgraduate education, while it may help career prospects, might not actually do much to land you a job right away.
Duration
While a graduate scheme can last between a year and three years, postgraduate education can last up to seven years if undertaken on a part-time basis.
Financial differences
Not only does postgraduate studying not pay you, but it also costs money to partake in. Graduate schemes, on the other hand, will pay you a salary much like a normal job.
Tips for making your post-graduate decision
When deciding which path to take after completing your undergraduate studies, the next step should be determined by the field you wish to enter.
If you have the opportunity to go straight into a graduate role that you know won’t be limited by a lack of postgraduate qualifications, then a graduate scheme is a safe bet. If, however, you are looking to venture into law, then studying for a GDL can help you stand out as a candidate for jobs later on down the line.
It’s worth noting that some firms offer additional training as part of graduate programs or jobs.
We wish you all the best in whatever you decide to do post-university. If you’d like more information about graduate schemes, read our dedicated blog which outlines all their pros and cons.
To find out more about careers at SEFE please visit our homepage.
The views, opinions and positions expressed within this article are those of our third-party content providers alone and do not represent those of SEFE. The accuracy, completeness and validity of any statements made within this article are not guaranteed. SEFE accepts no liability for any errors, omissions or representations.
